How to treat scabies mites in cats at home? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical acaricide such as selamectin or a lime‑sulfur dip according to the product’s dosage guidelines, repeating the treatment after the mite life cycle (approximately 10‑14 days). Simultaneously, wash all bedding, groom the cat to remove crusts, and disinfect the living area to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat scabies mites in cats at home? - in detail
Treating sarcoptic mange in cats can be accomplished at home with a systematic approach that includes diagnosis confirmation, environmental decontamination, topical and oral medications, and ongoing monitoring.
A correct diagnosis is essential. Look for intense itching, hair loss in patches, crusted skin, and red lesions, especially on the ears, elbows, and abdomen. A veterinarian‑performed skin scraping examined under a microscope confirms the presence of the mite.
Environmental control eliminates reinfestation. Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floors thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately. Clean hard surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) and allow to air‑dry.
Medication options suitable for home use include:
- Topical acaricides – Apply a product containing selamectin or moxidectin according to the label, covering the entire dorsal surface from the neck to the tail. Repeat the application after 14 days to break the mite life cycle.
- Oral antiparasitics – Administer a single dose of a milbemycin oxime‑based tablet; a second dose after 14 days ensures eradication. Dosage must match the cat’s weight; precise measurement prevents toxicity.
- Shampoos – Use a medicated shampoo with chlorhexidine or benzoyl peroxide during bathing. Scrub gently, leave the foam on the skin for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Limit bathing to once every 3–4 days while lesions are active.
Supportive care reduces discomfort and promotes healing:
- Provide a hypoallergenic diet to prevent secondary skin infections.
- Apply a thin layer of a veterinary‑approved aloe‑vera gel or a diluted chlorhexidine solution to raw areas twice daily.
- Keep the cat indoors to avoid exposure to additional parasites.
Monitoring includes daily inspection of the coat and skin. Persistent lesions after two treatment cycles indicate possible resistance or secondary infection; in such cases, veterinary reevaluation is required.
When any of the following signs appear, professional intervention is mandatory: severe anemia, uncontrolled bleeding, fever, lethargy, or rapid weight loss. These symptoms suggest systemic involvement beyond the scope of home management.